18 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books (2024)

Is it actually possible to get paid to read books?

If you relish being absorbed in a good read and enjoy sharing your opinions, you can turn your passion for reading into a source of income!

In this article, I'll explore the best ways to earn money by reading books, weigh the pros and cons of various reading jobs, and guide you on where to find opportunities.

Before I start

It's hard to make substantial money reading books.

For that, you are better starting an online business.

This is the best business to start online and made me $27k last month:

(This will make you more than reading books)

Key Points & Takeaways

• There are many ways to make money reading books.
• You can become a book translator, a proofreader, an acquisitions editor, a book reviewer, or a beta reader, just to mention a few.
• The earning potential varies widely, from a few dollars per review to over $1,000, depending on the platform and your experience.
• You can optimize your earnings by improving reading speed, maintaining focus, choosing books wisely, setting goals, engaging with the material, and utilizing technology like audiobooks.

How to Make Money Reading Books

Did you know that you can actually make money by indulging in your love for reading books? It's true! Reading can be both enjoyable and profitable, offering numerous avenues for earning income while immersing yourself in captivating stories and insightful content.

Let's explore several exciting ways that you can turn your passion for reading into a source of income:

Make Money Translating Books

In the book publishing industry, a translator brings a book to new audiences by translating it from its original language into another.

If you are fluent in another language and have a passion for reading, you might find translating books to be a rewarding endeavor.

Successful books often get translated to reach a wider audience, and this is where your skills as a translator come into play. As a translator, your job is not only to convert the text from one language to another but also to maintain the original tone, style, and nuances of the author's work. This requires a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as cultural contexts.

Being a book translator means you essentially become a co-author of the translated version. This significant role can sometimes entitle you to receive royalties, similar to the original author. Royalties can provide ongoing income based on the sales of the translated book, making it a potentially lucrative career path if you work on popular titles.

Get Paid Proofreading Books

A proofreader in the book publishing industry is the final quality check before a manuscript goes to print. Your primary responsibility is to catch typos, grammatical errors, and ensure that the formatting meets industry standards.

This task requires a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of language mechanics, as any overlooked mistakes can impact the book's overall quality and reader experience.

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If you love reading books but aren't particularly interested in making extensive line edits, becoming a proofreader could be an ideal career path. As a proofreader, you get to immerse yourself in various genres and subjects, enjoying the content while focusing on perfecting the final product.

There are multiple avenues to pursue as a proofreader. You can work for traditional publishing houses, where you might be part of a larger editorial team, or you can choose to freelance. Freelancing offers flexibility in terms of workload and schedule, allowing you to work from anywhere and potentially select projects that align with your interests.

Making money as a proofreader is feasible, especially if you build a reputation for accuracy and reliability. Many proofreaders charge per word, per page, or per project, and rates can vary widely based on experience, the complexity of the manuscript, and the turnaround time required. Entry-level proofreaders might start at a lower rate, but with experience and a strong portfolio, you can command higher fees.

To get started, take courses and obtain certifications in proofreading to enhance your skills and credibility.

Network with authors, editors, and publishing professionals to open doors to job opportunities and freelance gigs. Online platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Reedsy are excellent places to find freelance proofreading jobs.

In summary, if you have a passion for reading and a meticulous eye for detail, proofreading can be a rewarding and profitable career. Whether you choose to work for a publisher or as a freelancer, there are ample opportunities to turn your love for books into a viable profession.

Work as an Acquisitions Editor

An acquisitions editor, also known as an acquiring editor, plays a crucial role in the traditional publishing world. Your primary responsibility in this role is to evaluate manuscripts and decide which ones have the potential to be successfully published.

This involves reading submissions, assessing their market potential, and determining whether they align with your publishing house's goals and audience.

One of the exciting aspects of being an acquisitions editor is the opportunity to discover new, engaging manuscripts that could become the next big hit.

However, this also comes with the pressure of making critical decisions. If a manuscript fails to keep your interest, you have the authority to stop reading and send a rejection letter. This means you must balance your personal judgment with market trends and the potential profitability of the manuscript.

To succeed as an acquisitions editor, you need a keen eye for quality writing, a good understanding of market trends, and excellent negotiation skills. You're not only reading and evaluating manuscripts but also working closely with authors and agents to negotiate contracts and terms of publication.

In terms of making money as an acquisitions editor, this role can be financially rewarding, especially as you gain experience and establish a reputation in the industry.

Salaries can vary widely depending on the size and prestige of the publishing house, your experience level, and the geographic location.

According to industry sources, entry-level positions may start at around $40,000 to $50,000 per year, while experienced acquisitions editors can earn upwards of $70,000 or more annually. Additionally, senior editors or those working at major publishing houses may earn significantly higher salaries.

While the job can be demanding and requires a significant amount of reading and decision-making, it offers the satisfaction of discovering and bringing new books to the market. If you have a passion for literature and a knack for identifying potential bestsellers, a career as an acquisitions editor can be both fulfilling and lucrative.

Make Money Writing Book Reviews

Making money as a book reviewer combines your love for reading with the opportunity to earn an income. Quality book reviewers are always in demand because new books are constantly being published, and authors need insightful reviews to help promote their work.

If you are new to book reviewing, you don't need years of professional writing experience to get started. Many book review websites welcome beginners and offer opportunities to perform beta reading for a modest fee. These platforms are a great way to gain experience, hone your reviewing skills, and start earning money while doing something you enjoy.

For those with more experience in book reviewing, the opportunities are even more lucrative. Many websites specifically seek out experienced reviewers for their insights and expertise. These opportunities often require you to audition, showcasing your reviewing prowess, but they also provide a greater chance of earning higher pay and gaining recognition in the literary community.

Websites dedicated to book reviews frequently post openings for both beta readers and seasoned reviewers.

If you're looking to earn money by sharing your thoughts on books, there are several platforms available to you, each offering its own unique opportunities and perks. Here are some platforms where you can get paid for writing book reviews:

1. Online Book Club: With over a million active members, Online Book Club provides free books in exchange for reviews. You can earn between $5 to $60 for your reviews, and the process is straightforward.
2. Reedsy Discovery: This platform specializes in indie books, offering a chance to read self-published works before they hit the mainstream. You can build your brand as a reviewer and receive direct requests from authors.
3. Kirkus Reviews: Known for its book reviews, Kirkus Media pays reviewers to write 350-word reviews within a two-week deadline. They especially seek reviewers proficient in Spanish and English indie books.
4. Any Subject Books: This service pays cash for reviews and matches reviewers with books in their preferred genres. There are no long-term commitments, and pay varies based on the book's volume and difficulty.
5. Book Browse: Book Browse rewards reviewers with advance readers' copies (ARCs) of books, allowing you to read titles before they're published. Reviews are short and sweet, typically ranging from 50 to 100 words.
6. U.S. Review of Books: This prestigious publication accepts reviewers and pays for 250 to 300-word reviews. Expectations for professionalism are high, and you'll need to submit a portfolio to apply.
7. Women’s Review of Books: A respected feminist magazine, WRB pays $100 per review. They prioritize quality and professionalism, making it an excellent opportunity for experienced reviewers.
8. Upwork: As a freelance platform, Upwork offers various book review gigs with flexible pay rates. You can find one-time jobs or long-term collaborations with clients.
9. Moody Press: While not paid, Moody Press offers free copies of Christian books for review. This opportunity is ideal for those interested in uplifting and faith-based literature.
10. NetGalley: Connecting reviewers with publishers, NetGalley allows you to read books before they're published. Reviews help authors improve, and the service is free to join.
11. Fiverr: Fiverr is a versatile marketplace where you can offer book review services at your chosen price. You set your rates and can attract clients for short or long-term projects.
12. Instaread: If you prefer summarizing books rather than writing reviews, Instaread pays $100 per summary. Summaries should be detailed and insightful, ranging from 1000 to 1500 words.
13. New Pages: This platform seeks reviewers for literary magazines and independent publishers. Reviews are short, typically between 100 to 200 words, and focus on small press books.
14. Publishers Weekly: Known for industry news and reviews, Publishers Weekly hires freelancers to contribute book reviews across genres. Opportunities are competitive, but the exposure is valuable.
15. Tyndale Blog Network: Tyndale's program rewards reviewers with points for activities like sharing links or writing reviews. Points can be redeemed for books, making it a rewarding experience for avid readers.
16. Scribd: Scribd offers various reading materials and occasionally hires reviewers and proofreaders. Reviews should be honest and insightful, contributing to the platform's diverse collection.
17. Voice Bunny and The Voices: If you have a talent for voice acting, consider platforms like Voice Bunny and The Voices. You can audition for voice-over gigs and set your rates, providing narration for audiobooks and more.
18. getAbstract: Specializing in non-fiction books, getAbstract pays freelancers to summarize articles and books. If you have expertise in technology and science, this platform could be a great fit for you.

These platforms offer diverse opportunities for book enthusiasts to share their opinions, earn money, and engage with a community of readers and authors.

Be a Beta Reader

A beta reader is someone who reads a manuscript before it is published to provide feedback to the author. As a beta reader, you play a crucial role in the pre-publication process, similar to how a beta tester works with software. Your task is to assess various aspects of the book, such as:

• Engagement: Is the story captivating? Does it hold your interest from beginning to end?
• Character Believability: Are the characters well-developed and realistic? Do their actions and dialogues make sense?
• Plot Consistency: Is the plot coherent and logical? Are there any missing or confusing plot points?

Beyond these points, beta readers often provide feedback on pacing, dialogue, setting, and overall readability. Your insights help authors identify strengths and weaknesses in their manuscripts, enabling them to make necessary revisions before the book goes to print.

Here’s how you can turn your love for reading into a paying gig:

1. Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Reedsy often have listings for beta reading jobs. You can create a profile and offer your services to authors seeking feedback on their manuscripts.
2. Author Communities: Engage with online writing communities such as Goodreads, Scribophile, and various Facebook groups dedicated to writers. These platforms often have authors looking for beta readers, and some may offer compensation.
3. Self-Publishing Authors: Many self-publishing authors are willing to pay for beta reading services to ensure their book is polished before it reaches the public. Building relationships with indie authors can lead to regular work.
4. Publishing Companies: Some publishing companies hire beta readers as part of their editorial process. These positions might be more formal and could offer a steady stream of manuscripts to read.
5. Book Review Blogs: If you run a book review blog, you might receive requests from authors to beta read their work in exchange for a fee. This can be a good way to monetize your blog while doing something you enjoy.

To become a successful beta reader:

• Develop a Niche: Specialize in genres you love or have expertise in. This makes your feedback more valuable and targeted.
• Build a Portfolio: Collect testimonials from authors you’ve worked with. Positive feedback can help attract more clients.
• Stay Professional: Provide constructive criticism respectfully. Authors are looking for helpful feedback, not harsh judgments.
• Keep Deadlines: Authors often work on tight schedules. Meeting deadlines ensures you maintain a good reputation.
• Enhance Your Skills: Consider taking courses or reading books on literary critique to improve your feedback quality.

Making Money on Goodreads

Goodreads is a great platform for self-published authors alongside works from large publishers. This integration broadens your opportunities to review a diverse range of books and reach a wider audience.

Goodreads has a highly-rated mobile app that allows you to review books on the go. The convenience of the app means you can easily jot down your thoughts and opinions about the books you read wherever you are.

You can regularly submit detailed and thoughtful reviews on Goodreads to establish a presence in the book-loving community.

Goodreads occasionally offers job openings for professional book reviewers. These positions involve proofreading and offering book reviewing services, and they pay well for your expertise. Keep an eye on the job listings on Goodreads to find opportunities to get paid for your reviews.

You can also get paid on Goodreads if you are already a paid reviewer for another site. This cross-posting can increase your visibility and enhance your chances of being noticed by Goodreads for potential job opportunities.

To build your credibility, you can Engage with the Goodreads community by making friends and giving and receiving book recommendations. The more active you are, the more likely you are to be seen as a valuable influencer. Goodreads values active participants who contribute meaningfully to discussions and reviews.

While Goodreads focuses primarily on fostering a community of book lovers rather than directly paying for reviews, it offers opportunities for exposure and professional growth.

By consistently writing quality reviews, actively engaging with the community, and leveraging job opportunities, you can turn your passion for reading into a profitable endeavor.

Amazon (Audiobook Creative Exchange)

If you love reading books and want to turn that passion into a source of income, Amazon offers a great opportunity through its Audiobook Creative Exchange (ACX).

Here's how you can get paid reading books on Amazon:

1. Sign Up on ACX: Start by creating an account on ACX, Amazon's platform connecting audiobook narrators with authors and publishers. It's free to join, and the registration process is straightforward.
2. Create Your Profile: Set up a detailed profile that highlights your skills and experience. This includes uploading samples of your voice work, which will help authors and publishers evaluate your suitability for their projects. Be sure to showcase your versatility and range in your sample recordings.
3. Choose a Book to Audition: Browse through the thousands of books listed on ACX and select the ones you’re interested in narrating. Each book will have specific audition requirements, so follow the guidelines provided. You can audition for as many books as you like, increasing your chances of landing a project.
4. Get Selected and Start Narrating: If your audition is successful, you’ll be chosen to narrate the book. Upon selection, you will agree on a contract that specifies your payment terms. You can either get paid a pre-determined hourly rate for your work or opt for a royalty share, where you earn a percentage of sales from the audiobooks you’ve narrated.
5. Record and Produce the Audiobook: Work on recording the audiobook in a quiet environment, using high-quality recording equipment. ACX has specific audio requirements, so ensure your recordings meet these standards. You can choose to handle the editing and production yourself or hire a professional to assist.
6. Submit Your Finished Work: Once the audiobook is completed and meets ACX’s technical specifications, submit it for approval. After it passes the quality checks, it will be published and made available for purchase on Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.
7. Earn Money: You will start earning money based on the payment method agreed upon in your contract. If you chose an hourly rate, you’ll be paid accordingly. If you opted for royalties, you will earn a percentage of each sale. The great thing with ACX is that popular audiobooks can lead to significant passive income over time as more customers purchase them.

With ACX, you can transform your passion for reading into a lucrative endeavor. Not only do you get paid for doing something you love, but you also gain the satisfaction of bringing stories to life and sharing them with a wider audience. Whether you’re looking to make some extra money or pursue a full-time career in audiobook narration, ACX offers a platform to achieve your goals.

How Much Can You Make Reading Books?

The amount you can earn from reading books and writing reviews varies widely depending on the platform and the specifics of the task.

Some websites offer modest payments, starting at around $5 per book review. These reviews typically require a concise summary, often around 350 words.

On some platforms, you can earn between $0.25 to $1 for reading around 20,000 words. According to Words to Time, reading 20,000 words would take the average reader at least 2 hours.

At the same time, other platforms can pay substantially more, with some opportunities exceeding $1,000 for more comprehensive, in-depth reviews that can range from 1,000 to 1,500 words. These higher-paying gigs often expect detailed analyses and insights, making them an excellent way to hone your writing skills.

Many companies hire book reviewers on a freelance basis giving you flexibility in terms of pricing and workload.

As a freelancer, you might have the opportunity to set your own rates, negotiate terms, and choose projects that align with your interests and expertise.

What I'm putting across here is that the earning potential for book readers isn't limited to a single number.

Instead, it's a spectrum influenced by factors such as the length and depth of the review, the platform you choose, and whether you're working as a freelancer or under a specific contract.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you've now seen the myriad of ways you can monetize your love for reading books. From narrating to reviewing nonfiction works, there's a niche for everyone in this vibrant community. While it may not become a primary source of income for most, it's certainly a way to earn some extra cash doing something you love.

However, before you dive in headfirst, take a moment to reflect on a few key points. First, resist the temptation to pursue every option at once. Instead, focus on one or two that truly pique your interest.

Next, remember to review books you genuinely love. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your reviews, making them more compelling to readers and authors alike.

Alternatively...

If you're interested in making more money you should consider starting an online business. But which business should you start?

I've tested and reviewed 100s!

This is the best online business to start and made me $27k last month:

(This is better than getting paid to read books in my opinion)